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Brian Bloom, a 24-year-old aspiring writer, tries to carve out his identity amidst the competitive atmosphere of New York City. His passion for storytelling fuels his ambitions, setting the stage for a life-changing encounter.

Brian's life takes a turn when he meets Arielle Pierpont, an intriguing 33-year-old French woman. Their immediate chemistry hints at a deeper connection between them, despite the complexities that lie ahead.

During their second encounter, Arielle opens up about her unusual marriage with Valéry, a diplomat nearly twice her age. She reveals their marriage arrangement, which allows for extramarital affairs during set hours, leaving Brian in shock.

Despite initial reservations, Brian succumbs to the temptation of his growing feelings for Arielle. They begin to meet regularly in a hotel room, creating their own intimate escape from the outside world.

Valéry, aware of the affair, confronts Brian about his involvement with Arielle. This moment underscores the brewing tension and highlights the risks associated with their relationship.

Brian is introduced to Arielle's children and her other lover, Jane, which sparks intense emotional confrontations. The dynamics within the family complicate Brian's feelings and the situation as a whole.

Brian meets Arielle's parents, Sam and Arlene, where he faces Sam's stern disapproval and Arlene's unconditional acceptance. This meeting amplifies the emotional turmoil surrounding Arielle's choices.

Brian receives an acknowledgment for his writing at an award ceremony attended by Arielle, Valéry, Jane, and his own parents. This prestigious moment brings Jane's interest in publishing Brian's work to light, marking a turning point in his career.

In a climactic moment filled with emotion, Brian proposes to Arielle, offering her a ring. Her joyous acceptance sets a plan for their reunion, highlighting the depth of their feelings amid the chaos surrounding them.

Just after the proposal, Valéry confronts Brian, delivering a slap and a check for $250,000, symbolizing his desire to maintain control over Arielle's life. This confrontation leaves Brian reeling, questioning everything.

Brian receives a letter from Arielle through the hotel doorman, expressing her regrets and confirming that she cannot leave her family behind. This letter solidifies a heart-wrenching decision and signals an end to their relationship.

As the emotional strains accumulate, Jane's relationship with Valéry reaches its breaking point. This adds further complications to Brian's situation and the friendships at play, pushing everyone toward inevitable changes.

Time passes, and Brian achieves a major milestone with the publication of his debut novel. This success validates his efforts and marks a new chapter in his life, providing a sense of accomplishment.

Years later, Brian is with his wife, Kiva, and their young son when they unexpectedly encounter Arielle and her teenage children. The meeting rekindles old feelings and stirs nostalgia for the past.

During the encounter, Valéry inquires about Jane's well-being, to which Brian shares her happiness. However, Arielle's subtle gesture of preserving the ring he gave her suggests that the bond between her and Brian is far from severed.